dadaLab
Need Debate Over Draft
RECEIVED Wed., Oct. 13, 2004
To the editor,
On Oct. 5, the leadership of the U.S. House of Representatives rushed to vote on a bill that would reinstate the military draft. The Universal National Service Act of 2003 (HR 163) was originally introduced by U.S. Rep Charles Rangel (D-New York) much more than a year ago. Until Tuesday, this bill had not seen the light of day, nor was there any hint that it would be taken up on the House floor. Suddenly, with exactly four weeks left before the election, the bill was brought up for a vote. Because the bill was introduced under a special rule, there was no committee discussion or vote and only a 40-minute debate was allowed on the floor.
The military draft is a serious issue that involves the lives of young Americans, those who are serving and those who may be called upon to serve. It is an issue that deserves real debate, not political gamesmanship. Our political leaders, beginning with President Bush and Senator Kerry, should contribute to a national dialogue by explaining how they will shape foreign and security policy to address the significant strain that the military is under. Tuesday's vote should mark a ratcheting up of the debate, not the end of the discussion as some politicians apparently intended.
On Oct. 5, the leadership of the U.S. House of Representatives rushed to vote on a bill that would reinstate the military draft. The Universal National Service Act of 2003 (HR 163) was originally introduced by U.S. Rep Charles Rangel (D-New York) much more than a year ago. Until Tuesday, this bill had not seen the light of day, nor was there any hint that it would be taken up on the House floor. Suddenly, with exactly four weeks left before the election, the bill was brought up for a vote. Because the bill was introduced under a special rule, there was no committee discussion or vote and only a 40-minute debate was allowed on the floor.
The military draft is a serious issue that involves the lives of young Americans, those who are serving and those who may be called upon to serve. It is an issue that deserves real debate, not political gamesmanship. Our political leaders, beginning with President Bush and Senator Kerry, should contribute to a national dialogue by explaining how they will shape foreign and security policy to address the significant strain that the military is under. Tuesday's vote should mark a ratcheting up of the debate, not the end of the discussion as some politicians apparently intended.
Sincerely,
Stephanie Elias
Stephanie Elias
